By: Our Staff Writer
Monrovia, Liberia |May 14, 2026|Public Health Expert (PHE) Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan has reassured Liberians that there is currently no Hantavirus outbreak in Liberia despite growing public concern following international reports linked to a cruise ship incident.
In a public statement shared on his Facebook page on May 7, 2026, Dr. Nyan said many Liberians at home and abroad had contacted him after reports emerged about suspected Hantavirus infections connected to a cruise ship where several deaths and illnesses were reported.
Addressing public fears, Dr. Nyan clearly stated that Liberia has recorded no confirmed outbreak of the virus.
“First, let me say that there is NO Hantavirus outbreak in Liberia … don’t worry!” he said.
He also warned against spreading misinformation and clarified that the situation should not be described as a pandemic or epidemic.
“Second, let me clarify that this situation is NOT a ‘Pandemic’ and it is NOT an ‘Epidemic,’” he explained.
Dr. Nyan educated the public about the disease, describing Hantavirus as a virus commonly carried by rodents such as rats and mice in different parts of the world.
According to him, people can become infected mainly by breathing in particles contaminated by rodent urine, saliva, or feces.
He explained, “Infection and transmission occur primarily through inhalation when a person comes in contact with aerosolized rodent excreta.”
The health expert listed symptoms linked to the virus, including fever, chills, headaches, fatigue, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and muscle aches.
He warned that severe untreated cases can affect the lungs, heart, and kidneys.
Dr. Nyan stressed that prevention is the best protection against the virus and encouraged the public to reduce contact with rodents. “PREVENTION: Reduce or eliminate contact with rodents,” he advised.
He again urged Liberians not to panic, emphasizing, “TAKE-AWAYS: No Panic … There is NO outbreak of Hantavirus in Liberia. Avoid or eliminate rodent reservoirs!”
Dr. Nyan also praised regional disease surveillance systems, noting that organizations such as West African Health Organization and Africa CDC continue monitoring infectious diseases closely and are prepared to respond quickly to potential outbreaks in the region.
